Pelosi Statement on Five Years Since January 6th Insurrection

Washington, D.C. - Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued this statement marking five years since the January 6th insurrection:

"Five years ago today, the United States Capitol was attacked in a violent insurrection incited by the President of the United States for one purpose: to overturn a free and fair election and cling to power in clear violation of the Constitution. January 6th was not an aberration and it was not spontaneous. It was the culmination of a sustained assault on truth, on the rule of law, and one of the most sacred principles of our democracy: the peaceful transfer of power.

"On that day, Members of Congress, staff, and journalists were hunted and forced to flee for their lives as the halls of Congress were desecrated. Law enforcement officers were beaten, crushed, and scarred-physically and psychologically-while defending the seat of American democracy. Some paid the ultimate price. We honor the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of the U.S. Capitol Police and the law enforcement officers who stood their ground so that the work of democracy could continue.

"We must speak plainly: January 6th was an attempted coup. It was an effort to nullify millions of lawful votes and subvert the will of the American people. But the attack failed because of the courage of public servants who gave proof through the night that our flag was still there by refusing to bend to pressure, threats, or intimidation. On that day, the Constitution held and we kept the Republic.

"Yet the danger did not end when the Capitol was secured. The same falsehoods that ignited the violence on that day continue to be spread. The same contempt for democratic norms continues to corrode our Republic. There is an ongoing effort to rewrite history, excuse the inexcusable, and glorify those who attacked our democracy - including with blanket pardons which sanitize an attack on the Constitution itself and endorse lawlessness. The American people must remain vigilant that those who seek to forget, minimize, or excuse January 6th invite its repetition.

"On this fifth anniversary, remembrance alone is not enough. We have a responsibility to defend democracy with clarity and resolve: to protect the right to vote, to uphold the rule of law, to reject political violence in all its forms, and to demand accountability for those who would place themselves above the Constitution. The strength of our democracy lies in our willingness to confront the threats against it.

"January 6th stands as a stark warning and a solemn charge. We must choose truth over lies, courage over cowardice, and democracy over autocracy. The future of our Republic depends on it."